As striking workers for Verizon (VZ) return to their posts today, shareholders of the telecom giant hope the erosion in FiOS broadband and video subscriptions -- as well as to earnings -- during the standoff will stop. If the carrier comes to peace with its workforce after the more than six-week strike, Verizon can turn its attention back to its rivals in the wireless industry.
Under a tentative pact with the Communications Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers announced on Monday, Verizon agreed to boost wages by 10.5% over the four-year agreement, hire 1,400 more workers and increase pensions, among other concessions. In return, the telecom could change its healthcare plans to reduce costs and gain flexibility in offering worker buyouts.